Don Miller has never met a stranger…he is welcoming and warm to everyone he meets. He takes time to greet guests, share his knowledge and enthusiasm about Cheekwood’s history, our garden displays, art exhibitions, activities for children and programs. He serves at our many seasonal, cultural and special events, supports our outreach work, mentors and trains new volunteers, and is in a leadership role by serving on our Volunteer Committee. Don is a true ambassador for Cheekwood.
Tell us a little about yourself and your background.
I spent most of my life around Syracuse, New York. After graduating from Syracuse University I worked for 31 years for the same company and became the Manager of Computer Programmers. When that company left New York State in 1995 I became the Business Manager of our Catholic parish for 19 years. My wife and I were married for 42 years before she passed away from ovarian cancer in 2012. I reconnected with the girl that introduced my first wife and I and we were married in 2014 and I moved to Tennessee where she lived.
What are your favorite hobbies, activities, or interests?
When I arrived in Tennessee I started volunteering. I volunteer 3 days a week at Williamson Medical Center (hospital in Franklin), also do Meals On Wheels and volunteer at Cheekwood. Why these specific jobs? Because they offer me exercise and sociability, the two things I need most in my life now. I also take Life Long Learning classes at Lipscomb. And I enjoy day trips around Tennessee with Fifty Forward and the Williamson County Enrichment Center. Over the years my wives and I have enjoyed much travel in this county and abroad. Our favorite - Ireland. Next favorite - the Vatican and southern Italy. My wife is in Assisted Living so those kinds of trips are out. At home I have two lovely kitty cats. Love them dearly.
What is your favorite garden or area at Cheekwood and why?
The Color Garden because it is the first garden people see when they come in to Cheekwood and it is so beautiful especially during Cheekwood In Bloom. Second would be the trains.
Do you have a favorite artwork at Cheekwood, or, if not, a favorite exhibition that Cheekwood has hosted? Is there a reason you like it?
Not a favorite artwork but I loved the decorations inside the mansion last Christmas time.
Why did you decide to become a volunteer at Cheekwood?
To show first time visitors how to best see the various exhibits whether it be Cheekwood In Bloom or Harvest or Holiday Lights or the trains or the differing summer exhibits.
What have you enjoyed the most about your volunteer experience?
Being around nice people and beautiful surroundings.
Is there a funny or inspirational story you can briefly tell about your volunteer experience?
Definitely volunteer. The people (staff and other volunteers) are very welcoming and the exhibits change from season to season and are beautiful regardless of season. (And the Volunteer Director is pretty nice also.)
For more information about volunteering visit our volunteer web page: www.cheekwood.org/support/volunteer